According to a report by Vanguard on Wednesday 15th April 2026, a fresh wave of political tension is brewing within the All Progressives Congress (APC) as stakeholders in Southern Borno clash over plans to unseat Senator Ali Ndume ahead of the 2027 elections.
The disagreement became more pronounced following reports that some party figures are backing Abdullahi Askira as a potential replacement for the incumbent lawmaker.
However, the move has been strongly opposed by the Voice of Savannah Community Association, led by Comrade Ibrahim Ezekiel Mamza, which described the endorsement as an attempt to impose leadership on the people of the district.
Speaking from Maiduguri, the group criticised Askira’s political record and questioned his alignment with the long-standing demand for the creation of Savannah State; According to the association, such issues remain central to the identity and aspirations of the Southern Borno people.
The group also expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as a lack of visible achievements during Askira’s time in the state assembly, alongside concerns about ongoing security challenges in the region.
Despite the pushback, supporters of Askira are said to be mobilising quietly, signaling a possible contest that could reshape the political landscape of the district.
Mamza maintained that the senatorial seat has always been open to fair competition, dismissing claims that it should be zoned to any particular area; He pointed to past elections involving multiple aspirants as proof of the district’s democratic tradition.
Meanwhile, the association reaffirmed its support for Ndume, praising his track record and outspoken role in national politics; It urged voters to back his re-election, describing him as a steadfast advocate for Southern Borno.
